Motherhood sometimes has a way of making us put ourselves last or maybe if you’re like me, the times you do put yourself first the “mom guilt” starts to creep in. But, what I have learned is taking care of myself doesn’t take away from my role as a mom, it actually helps me be a better one.

Here are 8 things that help me show up as a better mom:

1. Movement

I have always loved working out. In fact, I asked for a gym membership for Christmas as soon as I was old enough to go to the gym by myself. I think I was around 12 or 13 (I definitely wasn’t driving yet because I remember my mom having to take me!).

There is just something about putting on a good throwback playlist, you know, the songs you used to dance your heart out to before you carried all of the responsibilities you do now and lifting some heavy weights.

Maybe lifting weights isn’t your thing, and that’s okay. Find what moves you, literally. Maybe it’s Pilates, dancing, walking, or something completely different. Whatever you choose, make it something you enjoy.

Movement gives me a reset. On the days I make time to work out, my patience is more abundant, my energy is higher, and I feel more like myself.

2. Eating Healthy

Have you heard the phrase, “You are what you eat?” What we put into our bodies affects our energy, our mood, and how we feel throughout the day. Now, I know what you might be thinking…

“Eat healthy? I barely have time to feed myself.”

I get it. As moms, taking the time to plan and prepare meals can feel like one more thing on an already endless to do list. But I’ve found that when I take the time to nourish my body, I have more energy, patience, and joy to pour into my kids.

3. Sleep

Let’s just say I haven’t had a consistent sleep schedule in three years. Motherhood and sleep don’t always go hand in hand. But on the nights when I do get more rest, I notice a difference the next day. I have more patience, more energy, and I’m better able to handle the challenging moments. Sometimes that means going to bed as soon as the kids are asleep instead of turning on the TV or staying up scrolling because the likelihood someone wakes up in the middle of the night is very possible. So get rest while you can!

4. Mindful Social Media Consumption

There was a season when I didn’t have social media on my phone, and honestly, I didn’t miss it. It is so easy to open an app to check one thing and suddenly realize 30 minutes have passed. Social media is designed to keep our attention, so we have to be intentional about how we use it. You don’t have to delete the apps like I did, but maybe consider setting some limits. Protecting your time is one way to protect your peace.

5. Showering

A lot of these things come down to meeting our basic needs and sometimes, as moms, we forget the basics, like showering. Something about taking a shower and getting clean just makes me feel better. It helps me feel refreshed, more put together, and ready to take on the day. Maybe it sounds simple, but sometimes the little things make the biggest difference.

6. Time Outside and Fresh Air

There is something about fresh air and sunshine that can completely change my mood. Even if it’s just sitting outside in the backyard with my kids or going for a walk, being outdoors helps me reset. I especially love being by the water. It reminds me of where I grew up, so I often take the kids to a park with a pond or a lake and just enjoy the scenery.

7. Connecting With Other Adults

Motherhood can feel isolating, especially when so much of your day revolves around caring for little people who need you, although they do say some pretty funny things, at least my child does. Having conversations with other adults, meeting a friend for coffee, joining a mom group, or simply calling someone on the phone can help recharge you. We were never meant to do motherhood alone.

8. Doing Things That Make Me Feel Like Me

I absolutely love being a mom, but I realize it is important to remember who I am outside of motherhood. Doing things that remind me of myself, whether that’s working out, playing pickleball, baking, reading, or creating, fills my cup and helps me show up as a more fulfilled mom.

As moms, we carry a lot, and sometimes we put ourselves on the back burner. But taking care of ourselves isn’t taking away from our children, it’s one of the ways we can lead by example.

When we care for ourselves, we are more equipped to show up with enthusiasm, patience, and a whole lot of love for the little people who need us most.

As always, I’m cheering you on, and I hope that something in my story encourages you in yours.

With Gratitude,
Angie
Moved by Motherhood